TN National Guard Joint Family Programs

01/24/2025

Sergeant Megan Cargin and Specialist Collin Carrier recently hosted an AP3 (Authorized Provider Partnership Program) training session at Parkers Crossroads. This training was designed to empower veteran organizations across the state to provide military funeral services, ensuring that our fallen heroes are honored with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Participants included representatives from:
🇺🇸 Parkers Crossroads Honor Guard
🇺🇸 VFW Post 4780
🇺🇸 VFW Post 4840
🇺🇸 American Legion Post 287
🇺🇸 Carroll County Rescue Squad
🇺🇸 Covington TN Veterans Honor Guard

After completing this training, these organizations are now certified to conduct all elements of a military funeral, including the flag fold, firing party, and bugle sequences.

We are proud to expand the availability of well-trained providers throughout Tennessee to honor those who have served our nation. Thank you to all who participated and to those who continue to ensure our service members are laid to rest with the honor they deserve.

01/17/2025

This month, our People First Friday spotlighted our H2F (Holistic Health and Fitness) team, Personal Finance Counselors, and MilitaryOneSource—all dedicated to supporting your total well-being. They shared expert insights on stress management, workout routines, and financial planning for our Service Members, Veterans, and their Families—ensuring you have the knowledge and tools to thrive in body, mind, and finances. A big thank you to everyone who joined and engaged with our presenters; we’re in this together.

12/25/2024

🎄 A Special Holiday Message from Major General Warner A. Ross II 🎄

This Christmas, we extend our deepest gratitude to the Soldiers, Veterans and the Families of the Tennessee National Guard for your unwavering dedication and sacrifices in 2024. Your service continues to inspire us all.

This year, we faced challenges head-on and achieved incredible milestones:
✅ Supporting communities during Hurricane Helene and rescuing hikers in East Tennessee.
✅ Competing and excelling on national stages like the Sullivan Cup.
✅ Strengthening global partnerships and answering the call wherever needed.

As we celebrate, let’s take a moment to honor the 800+ deployed Service Members who are spending this holiday away from their families. We are one Guard family, and together, we ensure that no one is left behind.

From all of us at the Tennessee National Guard Joint Family Programs, we wish you a safe and Merry Christmas. May your holiday season be filled with joy, love, and the warmth of family and friends.

A message from Tennessee's Adjutant General, Major General Warner A. Ross II.

12/23/2024

🎅✨ With less than 17 hours before the big guy starts his journey across the globe, we’re all feeling the holiday excitement!

Track Santa’s progress in real-time and get a sneak peek behind the scenes at the North Pole with this fun and festive link: https://santatracker.google.com.

Happy holidays from our Family to yours! 🎄🦌

12/12/2024

Thank you to the Nashville Republican Women for organizing the 20th annual toy drive for the Tennessee National Guard Youth Program. Your generosity and support make a meaningful impact on our youth and their families. A special thanks to TNGOP Chair Scott Golden for attending and showing your support. We are so grateful for your kindness this holiday season!

12/06/2024

🎉 Family Supporting Family 🎉
Today, we celebrate the incredible promotion of Major Anita M. Bounphongsy! Her dedication and service to the Tennessee National Guard have been nothing short of exemplary.

From her family to her team, we are all here to cheer her on as she reaches this amazing milestone. Major Bounphongsy's journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the unwavering support of those around her.

Congratulations, Major Bounphongsy! 🌟

12/05/2024

🎅🎄 TOMORROW IS THE DAY! 🎄🎅

Don’t miss your chance to apply for Holiday Assistance and make this season extra special! 🎁✨

⏰ The deadline is TOMORROW, December 6—submit your application today!

Holiday assistance is available for current Tennessee National Guard Service Members and their Dependents, Surviving Dependents of Gold Star Families, and Surviving Military Dependents.

👉 Apply here: https://www.cognitoforms.com/TNNG1/HolidayApplication

Let’s spread the holiday cheer and make it a joyful season for all! 🌟🎄

11/26/2024

🎄 REMINDER: Holiday Assistance Application Deadline is DECEMBER 6! 🎄

⏳ Don’t miss out! If you or your family are eligible, submit your application now to receive holiday assistance. This may include toys or a holiday meal.

💡 Details:
📅 Deadline: December 6, 2024
👥 Who’s Eligible:

Current Tennessee National Guard service members & their dependents
Surviving dependents of Gold Star Families
Surviving military dependents
🔒 Confidentiality: All information is kept confidential.

📞 Have questions? Contact your local Military & Family Readiness (Army) or Airman & Family Readiness (Air) team.

👉 Apply Here: https://www.cognitoforms.com/TNNG1/HolidayApplication

✨ Spread the word and make sure you apply by December 6! Let’s make this holiday season a joyful one. 🌟

11/26/2024

Thankful for Our Guard Family!

This Thanksgiving season, we came together at Joint Force Headquarters to celebrate our amazing service members, veterans, and their families! A big thanks to First Lady Maria Lee’s Tennessee Serves initiative, the Gary Sinise Foundation, and MISSION BBQ for making this special day possible with a delicious Thanksgiving lunch.

A huge shoutout to Abigail Buckingham and Becca Bradley for their beautiful music that set the perfect tone for the day! Events like these remind us how strong and connected our National Guard truly is to our Service Members, Veterans and their Families.

11/14/2024

🎄 Holiday Assistance for TNNG Members & Families 🎄

The Tennessee National Guard is offering holiday assistance for eligible service members and their dependents. Assistance may include toys or a meal for the holiday season.

💡 Important Details:

Submission Deadline: December 6, 2024

Eligibility: Current service members & dependents in Tennessee, surviving
dependents of Gold Star Families, and surviving military dependents.

Confidentiality: All information provided will remain confidential.

Note: Submission does not guarantee assistance, but all applications will receive consideration.

📞 For questions, please contact your local Military & Family Readiness team (Army) or Airman & Family Readiness team (Air).

Apply now to spread joy this holiday season! 🌟

https://www.cognitoforms.com/TNNG1/HolidayApplication

11/11/2024

On this Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who have served our country and our communities with unwavering dedication and strength. The Tennessee National Guard Joint Family Programs is proud to support our Veterans, Service Members and their Families, who stand as pillars of resilience and sacrifice.

Today and every day, we celebrate the service, commitment, and courage of all who have worn the uniform. Thank you for the legacy of freedom and honor you uphold. Together, we salute you and stand ready to support you and your families. 🇺🇸❤️

11/07/2024

This past weekend, our dedicated Youth Action Council took a trip to Sevierville to advance their current initiative: working toward a 25% in-state tuition discount for TN Tennessee National Guard Dependents. The YAC team were able to enjoy the sights at the Sunsphere in Knoxville as well!

Contact Tennessee National Guard Child and Youth Program to learn more!